We offer two different contract formats at Custom Dwellings depending upon job size and customer preference.  Either one can be used successfully, and one is not better than the other.  We typically do larger projects on a cost-plus basis, because the cost-plus version is typically a better value for the client and in our opinion…

My Mom often jokes that as a child I never wanted anything, I always needed it.  As I’ve gotten older that has almost changed to the point that I realize I need very little and want not much more.  One of the best things a homeowner can do while working through the design process with…

Building a new home, adding to your existing home, or remodeling can be one of the biggest investments you ever make.  Everyone has a budget to work with whether small or large, so one question is where or how to best spend that money on your unique project.  First on the list is the adage…

When I started my homebuilding career 25 years ago, I worked for a builder that wanted it all.  The company demanded quality, speed, service, and (low) price.  It didn’t take me long to realize that while these were admirable aspirations, not all these ideals were achievable.  Something had to give.  Everyone wants all four components…

As you are searching for a team to renovate your existing home or build one from the ground up, you may wonder, “if they have a good reputation, does it really matter if I like them?”  In short, yes it matters.  Don’t sign a contract with a company that you don’t trust, respect, or like…

It’s common advice when searching for a design/build team to ask for references.  This is good advice, but one may wonder, “what questions should I ask?”  Here’s a quick list of ideas to help as you prepare to make that call.

1. How does your pricing work? We utilize either a fixed price or combination of fixed fee/cost plus contract.   http://www.customdwellings.com/demystifying-construction-pricing 2. How is your pricing compared to other builders? When comparing ourselves to similar companies regarding service and quality, we are more than competitive. 3. What are your weaknesses? We are a small company and…

When considering a major remodel, many clients are concerned with their return on investment.  This is especially true if they only plan on being in the home for one or two years.  In this case it may be wise to shy away from major projects if an immediate financial return on your investment is a…

Previously we discussed how to prepare for a renovation and covered some more tangible items, such as clearing rooms of personal belongings, making space for tools and materials, etc.  This time we’ll cover some things that would be good to think about and discuss with your contractor before beginning work.  We try to cover these…

Occasionally we have potential clients contact us who have foregone the design/build process and skipped straight to hiring an architect or designer for plans then contact us as a builder to build the plans that have been produced.  This can seem logical.  It sounds like a chicken or egg question.  Which comes first, the designer…